Few people would list a trip to the dentist as their favorite activity, but for some, dentist anxiety can prevent them from going altogether. This can eventually result in oral health neglect, which has an impact on other body parts in addition to the teeth and gums.
If you are struggling with anxiety about going to the dentist, there are a number of resources and tools that you can try. Remember: this is about you regaining control. No situation is permanent, and even if you’ve experienced dentist anxiety for years, you’d be amazed at how things can change.
Multiple Approaches
In addition to sedation dentistry (which you can read more about here) and medications, therapeutic techniques can also help to lessen feelings of anxiety. If one method doesn’t work, try not to feel disheartened; it may be that an alternative method is more suited to you.
Getting Support
You can learn how to manage your anxiety with the aid of a certified therapist. This may involve a number of techniques, for example CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), breathwork or progressive muscle relaxation. They might also suggest either a short-term or long-term anxiety medication, if needed.
Another form of guided relaxation is hypnotherapy. For those who struggle with feeling in control at the dentist, it’s important to remember that hypnotherapy is not mind control or brainwashing and your therapist cannot make you do anything you don’t want to.
At the Appointment
Here are some things that can help you to prepare and to keep you feeling calm and confident.
- Visit a few different dental offices to see which is the best “fit”, and check reviews of practices in your area.
- Try to schedule your appointment in the morning. Make sure you do this when you’re not busy to avoid additional stress.
- Discuss what to expect with your dentist. Be transparent about your concerns, and ask what might help.
- Your dentist might offer analgesics (pain relief) for your treatment.
- There are also different levels of anesthetic or sedation that you can use, depending on what is most suitable for your health needs.
- On the day, try to avoid stimulants like caffeine as these can increase feelings of anxiety.
- Non-verbal forms of communication like hand-signals can help you maintain a sense of control during the procedure if you are unable to speak.
- Ask whether you can bring along a friend or family member for moral support.
You’re Not Alone
Support is key, but for some, feelings of embarrassment and even shame can throw up roadblocks before you start. What’s important to know is that you are not alone and there is nothing to be embarrassed about. Approximately 36% of people in the United States experience anxiety about going to the dentist, while an additional 12% have extreme fear (otherwise known as dentophobia, or odontophobia), so it is a common experience.
Be Kind to Yourself
Self-soothing techniques such as wearing sunglasses to reduce the glare of fluorescent lighting, listening to noise-blocking sounds on headphones or bringing a fidget toy or stress ball can all act as calming distractions.
Remember that you are doing something to take care of your body, and what’s more, you’re doing it despite the anxiety. That’s a remarkable achievement, so don’t forget to reward yourself after your appointment.
